INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Botsko

TEXT: Elementary Linear Algebra, 9^th edition by Howard Anton

COURSE CONTENT:

We will cover chapters 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the above text. A list of topics includes:

1. Systems of linear equations
2. Caussian elimination
3. Matrices and matrix operations
4. Inverses; Rules of matrix arithmetic
5. Elementary matrices and inverse matrices
6. Systems and invertibility
7. Diagonal, triangular, and symmetric matrices
8. The determinant function
9. Evaluating determinants
10. Properties of the determinant function
11. Cofactor expansion and Cramer's Rule
12. Euclidean n-space
13. Linear Transformations from n-space to m-space
14. Properties of linear transformations from n-space to m-space
15. Real vector spaces
16. Subspaces
17. Linear independence
18. Basis and dimension
19. Row space, column space, and null space
20. Rank and nullity
21. Inner products
22. Angle and Orthogonality
23. Orthonormal basis
24. Change of basis
25. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
26. Diagonalization
27. General linear transformations
28. Kernel and range
29. Inverse linear transformations
30. Matrices and linear transformations
31. Similarity

OBJECTIVES:

Students are expected to know the definitions and fundamental theorems of Linear Algebra, to be able to prove simple propositions, to develop proficiency in applying the problem-solving techniques treated in the course, to appreciate the power of abstract mathematics, and to be able to make connections between Linear Algebra and other branches of mathematics.

ASSESSMENT:

Formal exams and informal class discussions will be used to assess the level to which these objectives are being attained. There will be two in class exams and a final and you will be given a week's notice for each exam.

GRADING POLICY:

The final will count as 1/3 of your grade as will each of the two in class exams. The grading system will be according to the current SVC Bulletin.

CLASS ATTENDANCE:

Please make every effort to keep up with assignments and to attend all classes. A significant number of class cuts in a mathematics course almost always leads to disastrous results. If for some reason class is cancelled, an announcement will be posted on the Blackboard site for this course.

“Saint Vincent College assumes that all students come for a serious purpose and expects them to be responsible individuals who demand of themselves high standards of honesty and personal conduct. Therefore, it is college policy to have as few rules and regulations as are consistent with efficient administration and general welfare.

Fundamental to the principle of independent learning and professional growth is the requirement of honesty and integrity in the performance of academic assignments, both in the classroom and outside, and in the conduct of personal life. Accordingly, Saint Vincent College holds its students to the highest standards of intellectual integrity and thus the attempt of any student to present as his or her own any work which he or she has not performed or to pass any examinations by improper means is regarded by the faculty as a most serious offense.”
Saint Vincent College 2003-2005 Bulletin, page 32.

Students with disabilities who may be eligible for academic accommodations and support
services should please contact Mrs. Sandy Quinlivan by phone (724-805-2371), email
(sandy.quinlivan@email.stvincent.edu) or by appointment (Academic Affairs-Headmaster
Hall).  Reasonable accommodations do not alter the essential elements of any course,
program or activity.

TUTORING FOR THE COURSE:

I will be in my office (4th floor of Alfred Hall) at the following times during the week. Do feel free to stop in when you are having any difficulty with the material.

Friday: 9:30 to 10:30

In addition to my office hours, student tutors will be assigned by the Mathematics Department and their hours will be given to you during the first week of class. You are also free to come to them for help in the course.

Assignments and Other Information If this link doesn't work, click here.